Effect of abiotic factors and nutrition elements on pollen germination and pollen viability

Patel, Twinkle and Singh, Bhavna and Solanki, Hitesh (2025) Effect of abiotic factors and nutrition elements on pollen germination and pollen viability. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 25 (2). pp. 836-851. ISSN 2581-9615

Pollen viability and germination are essential components of the flowering plant reproduction. Numerous physiological, metabolic, and environmental elements interact in a complicated way to affect these processes. The germination and viability of pollen grains are greatly impacted by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, light, and air pollution. Modest humidity and ideal temperature encourage healthy germination, whereas high temperature or extended exposure to harsh environments frequently results in decreased viability. Pollen tube growth and fertilization effectiveness is physiologically influenced by the age and genetic composition of pollen grains, as well as the general health of the plant. For example, fresher, younger pollen grains usually have higher germination and viability rates than damaged or older grains. Biochemically, successful fertilization depends on the pollen’s essential nutrients, carbohydrates, and proteins as well as the activation of enzymes needed for pollen tube formation. Furthermore, the way that stigma and pollen interact- for example, through compatibility factors and surface receptors on the stigma- can either promote or prevent pollen germination. It has been demonstrated that abiotic stressors like drought lower pollen’s capacity to germinate, which affects plant reproduction and agricultural output. This review highlights the significance of pollen viability and germination processes for plant reproductive success by summarizing the current understanding of these aspects.